Sexual Desire Research Articles

Sexual health is a significant aspect of health-related quality of life. Impaired sexual health adversely affects the well-being and relationship between cancer patients and their partners. To investigate the attitudes and perceptions of sexual health among advanced cancer patients and partners, and the impact of cancer on sexual health in the Asian context. Reflexive thematic analysis was applied to the data collected from semi-structured face-to-face interviews, which were transcribed verbatim. Stage 3 and 4 cancer patients and partners were recruited at the oncology outpatient clinic in Malaysia. Eighteen patients (13 [72%] female, median age 38.5 (interquartile range 17.5) years and nine partners (8 [89%] male, median age 33 (interquartile range 15) years were interviewed. Main themes include: (1) physical intimacy remains a vital part of the relationship, (2) impact of cancer on sexual desire, activity and satisfaction, (3) impact of cancer on patient-partner relationship, (4) changes in perceptions of body image, attractiveness and self-esteem, and (5) patient-partner coping mechanisms. Most participants perceived both physical and emotional intimacy as important and felt their relationship improved post-cancer due to better communication and more support from their partners. Coping strategies include acceptance of their illness, prioritising cancer control over sexual needs, and finding meaning through spirituality. Although cancer can reduce sexual desire and satisfaction, sexual health and relationship well-being can be maintained through emotional and physical intimacy, improved communication, companionship and support, and psycho-spiritual coping strategies. Further research is needed to develop sexual health interventions that are culturally adaptable and effective across diverse populations.

Aim:: Sexual deviance and marital infidelity are among the most significant factors undermining marital stability. The purpose of this article is to present a novel conceptual model termed “Sexual Exclusivity Development”, which explains how healthy sexual growth can lead to the restriction of sexual desire to a committed marital relationship and thereby reduce the likelihood of harmful sexual behaviors. Method: The method of this study is conceptual model construction, based on the author’s three decades of professional experience working with individuals suffering from sexual deviance and marital infidelity, along with the application of relevant theoretical frameworks in this field. Findings: Based on the synthesis of results obtained from working with clients who had a history of sexual deviation and infidelity, it was concluded that sexual maturity is not limited to biological changes. Rather, it represents a multidimensional process encompassing cognitive, emotional, moral, and self-regulatory growth. Drawing upon theoretical literature and the author’s clinical observations, the proposed model outlines ten developmental stages through which incongruent sexual stimuli are gradually eliminated and the individual’s sexual focus becomes centered on a spouse-oriented relationship. This article reviews psychoanalytic, evolutionary, attachment, and learning perspectives on sexual deviance and demonstrates how early sexual experiences and deficiencies in upbringing can disrupt the development of sexual exclusivity, thereby predisposing individuals to future marital infidelity. Conclusion: Finally, the article discusses the implications of this model for premarital counseling and emphasizes the necessity of empirical studies to evaluate its validity and practical applicability.

ABSTRACT Mainstream media representations of women’s sexual desire typically limit the full range of possibilities for sexual agency and embodied pleasure. This occurs when they foreground the importance of men’s sexual gratification, prioritise heteronormativity, exclude diverse identities and bodies, and frame women’s desire as an individualised project of the self. It remains unclear whether feminist alternative digital media disrupt and resist these normative constructions of women’s sexual desire, how they might do so, and with what possibilities for readers’ agentic sexual subjectivity construction. Addressing these questions, we conducted a discourse analysis of 55 articles from self-identified feminist online publications examining constructions of women’s sexual desire. Our analysis highlights two dominant constructions of desire: (1) “desire as diverse,” relating to an expanded representation of who can be sexually desiring and how, and (2) “desire as political,” locating desire within wider social critique and as a tool for social change. These indicate a potential broadening of women’s sexual agency but ultimately are undercut by neoliberal discourses of individual self-work and improvement.

Too stressed for sex? Associations between stress and sex in daily life.

Sexual-economic exchange is a multifaceted phenomenon shaped by biological, psychological, social, and economic factors. This paper examines sexual-economic exchange-including commercial sex and transactional intimacy-through a multidisciplinary lens, integrating perspectives from evolutionary psychology, sexual economics, and the social sciences. Evolutionary models frame these exchanges as adaptive strategies emerging from reproductive asymmetries and resource transfer dynamics. Historically, the institutionalization of private property and male-dominated societies fostered conditions for sex-for-resources arrangements, with prostitution representing an institutionalized and often stigmatized variant. Psychological approaches explore how some individuals arrive at sexual-economic exchange through pathways shaped by early adversity, cognitive patterns, and social marginalization. However, for many, sex work represents a conscious and strategic choice shaped by broader life circumstances and constrained opportunities. Sexual economics theory contextualizes these dynamics within market principles, positing that sexual access functions as a valued resource predominantly regulated by women in heterosexual interactions. Gender asymmetries in sexual desire and resource provision shape mating strategies and intrasexual competition, with societal norms reflecting market dynamics. Efforts to eliminate or liberalize sexual-economic exchange have yielded mixed outcomes, as seen in diverse historical and policy contexts. The persistence of such exchanges underscores the influence of socioeconomic inequality and biopsychological predispositions. This paper advocates for a multiple perspectives approach, integrating the biopsychosocial model, systems theory, and evolutionary psychology to provide a holistic understanding of sexual-economic exchange. This framework is not only conceptually integrative but also practically useful for informing research, improving support services, and guiding evidence-based policy.

Can kisspeptin be a new treatment for sexual dysfunction?

The evolved psychology of mate preferences: Sexual desire underlies the prioritization of attractiveness in long-term partners

This systematic review and meta-analysis examined how axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA), and its specific disease features, impact sexual function. Systematic review of medical literature databases PsycINFO, CINAHL, MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Central from their inception to February 2025. Studies reporting sexual function outcomes in men or women with axSpA were included. After narrative synthesis of included studies, random-effects meta-analysis was used to pool a subset of outcomes. Study quality was assessed using a modified version of the ROBINS-E tool. From the initial 342 identified studies, 37 were included. Nineteen (50%) examined sexual function in men only, 13 (34%) across both genders, five (13%) in women only, and one (3%) did not specify. Nine studies (24%) reported general sexual dysfunction prevalence in people with axSpA, ranging from 32-71%. A meta-analysis of studies (n = 4) examining the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) in men with axSpA found that all domain scores, except sexual desire, were worse compared with controls. In women with axSpA, a meta-analysis (n = 4) of Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) data revealed significantly poorer total sexual function scores, and arousal, pain, lubrication and desire sub-domain scores compared with controls. Between one- to two-thirds of people with axSpA report a sexual dysfunction. Pooling of data from a small subset of studies demonstrated statistically, and at times clinically, poorer sexual function scores in both men and women compared with controls. This conclusion is constrained by a lack of high-quality research and a notable scarcity of data concerning women.

Background Anejaculation (AE) and premature ejaculation (PE) are clinically distinct but mechanistically complex disorders. While both contribute substantially to male sexual health burden, their comparative profiles have not been systematically delineated in large cohorts. Methods We retrospectively analyzed 542 men (AE = 249, PE = 293) at a tertiary andrology clinic. All participants underwent vibration perception threshold (VPT) testing at ten standardized sites, spinal MRI reviewed by blinded radiologists, expressed prostatic secretion microscopy with supportive ultrasound for prostatitis, and validated psychological assessments (PHQ-9, GAD-7, SDI-2). Statistical comparisons used Mann–Whitney U tests, chi-squared tests, and multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA). Results AE patients exhibited higher composite VPT thresholds than PE (7.12 ± 1.75 vs. 6.60 ± 1.26, p < 0.001), with MANOVA confirming distinct sensory profiles (Wilks’ λ = 0.907, p < 0.001). Cervical-only abnormalities were markedly more frequent in PE (33.4% vs. 2.8%), whereas AE more often showed either no abnormality (45.8% vs. 28.0%) or combined cervical–lumbar involvement (14.5% vs. 7.5%; overall χ 2 = 84.46, p < 0.001). Chronic prostatitis was present in nearly half of AE cases but only one fifth of PE (47.4% vs. 20.1%, p < 0.001). Depressive symptoms were modestly higher in AE (PHQ-9: 8.31 ± 5.96 vs. 7.15 ± 5.65, p = 0.024), while sexual desire and anxiety scores did not differ significantly. Conclusions AE and PE display distinct clinical signatures. AE was linked to higher vibration thresholds, greater prevalence of prostatitis, and elevated depressive symptoms, while PE was predominantly associated with isolated cervical spine abnormalities. Recognizing these patterns may refine clinical assessment and guide more individualized management.

The invasion of Ukraine by Russia in 2022 has led to drastic changes in the social distancing awareness of Ukrainians and affected their social relationships. Due to the large-scale international conflict, fear of death and social distancing arose from the perception of external dangers caused by Russian army attacks, leading to the anticipation that sexual activities would be severely impacted. However, retrospective self-report studies on Ukrainians' pornography consumption and autoeroticism during this war are sorely lacking. This study used big-data databases available on the Internet to investigate factors that affected pornography use during the Russia-Ukraine War. Weekly relative search volume (WRSV) data from Google Trends from January 2, 2022 to July 31, 2022, were extracted. Pornography habits data were extracted from the Pornhub Insights website. The parameter was defined as "Ukraine's most searched-for terms in 2022 compared to an average day in 2021." A cumulative number of civilian deaths in Ukraine during Russia's invasion (listed by week) was obtained from the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) website (ohchr.org). The normality of the data was examined using the Shapiro-Wilk test. All variables included in this study were normally distributed. Therefore, parametric tests were adopted where appropriate. According to Google Trends, the WRSV for "pornography" increased in early March 2022 for the Ukrainian people, which is close to the date when Russia invaded and occupied parts of Ukraine in a major escalation of the Russo-Ukrainian War on February 24, 2022. The number of weekly civilian war deaths was positively correlated with the traffic of Pornhub, a popular pornography website in Ukraine, and the WRSV for "pornography." Mediation analysis demonstrated that a stronger Russian-pornography use association was observed with increased social distancing awareness. Increased Ukrainian pornography consumption during the 2022 invasion was observed, and it was associated with the severity of the Russian army attacks. Social distancing awareness could be a key factor influencing interest in and use of pornography for the Ukrainians. Further studies on changes in sexual desire and birth rate control in Ukraine are warranted, as long-term public health may be affected by shifts in sexual behavior during the Russo-Ukrainian War.

Breast cancer has a major impact on global public health. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the prevalence and associated factors of sexual dysfunction in women who received breast cancer treatment (BCT). Data were collected from sexually active adult women in Natal, Brazil, who had completed at least one year of BCT. The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) was used to assess sexual function in 88 participants. The prevalence of sexual dysfunction was found to be 76.1%, with the most affected domains being sexual desire and vaginal lubrication. Factors associated with sexual dysfunction included difficulty adjusting to post-surgery body changes, pre-existing comorbidities, and the absence of breast reconstruction. These findings highlight the significant impact of BCT on sexual function and underscore the need for targeted prevention and treatment interventions to address the sexual health needs of women undergoing this experience.

Digital erotic cultural production as a form of resistance against sexual oppression has the potential to encourage Black women to self-define, embrace, and subjectify their sexual desires, thus improving their sexual health behaviors. Using surveys and interviews, this study investigated the lives and strategies of Black women digital erotic cultural producers. Findings suggest that Black women digital erotic cultural producers lead lives as sexual health professionals who deploy strategies to pursue a positive change in the sexual behaviors of their priority audiences. Such change is needed to address the largely neglected disparities in Black women’s sexual health.

Background/Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the experiences of Swedish patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) regarding intimacy and sexuality-related issues, and to explore both patients’ and healthcare professionals’ perspectives on discussing these topics. Methods: This cross-sectional cohort study used two internet-based questionnaires: one targeting patients and the other healthcare professionals. The patient survey examined the impact of IBD and its treatment on relationships and sexuality, as well as expectations on healthcare support. The survey of healthcare professionals focused on experiences of discussing sexuality-related topics with IBD patients. Responses were analyzed using both quantitative and content analysis. Results: A total of 556 IBD patients and 118 healthcare professionals responded. Among patients, 78% reported difficulties related to relationships and sexuality, with physical symptoms like pain, fecal urgency, and bloating, and psychological problems such as fear of leakage and reduced sexual desire. Over half wished for these issues to be addressed in routine care, yet 84% had never initiated such discussions themselves. Among healthcare professionals, 23% never addressed issues of relationship and sexuality with patients, and another 50% did so only occasionally. Only 15% had access to qualified sexologists for referrals, and just 8% offered sexual rehabilitation after pelvic surgery. Conclusions: Sexual health is frequently compromised in IBD patients, especially in women, but remains insufficiently addressed in clinical practice. Both patients and healthcare professionals expressed a need for more open discussions about relationships and sexuality. Improving care requires routine screening, multidisciplinary support, and the development of guidelines for managing sexual dysfunction in IBD.

Pornography addiction is a growing public health concern worldwide, with increasing recognition of its prevalence and consequences in India. This study explores the onset, manifestation, and impact of pornography addiction within the Indian context, addressing the need for culturally relevant research. A retrospective, observational, cross-sectional study was conducted using data from 589 individuals who sought treatment for pornography addiction through online and offline healthcare platforms. Patients aged 18 and older were included based on the International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision (ICD-11) diagnostic criteria for Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder (CSBD) (6C72). Data on demographic factors, clinical diagnoses, and treatment outcomes were analyzed using International Business Machines Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (IBM SPSS). Participants received either pharmacological treatment, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. The sample included 589 participants, predominantly male (n = 583; 98.98%), with a mean age of 28.98 years; 374 (63.5%) were under 30, and 287 (48.7%) were single. Most identified as heterosexual (n = 568; 96.4%) and had no prior treatment history (n = 465; 78.9%). Common co-morbid sexual dysfunctions included erectile dysfunction (n = 232; 39.4%), premature ejaculation (n = 198; 33.6%), and low sexual desire (n = 109; 18.5%). Pharmacological treatment was most common (n = 338; 57.4%), followed by psychotherapy (n = 207; 35.2%) and combined treatment (n = 44; 7.4%). Age showed significant associations with addiction severity (χ² = 17.07, p = .01), relationship status (χ² = 190.11, p < .01), and treatment modality (χ² = 12.25, p = .01), with younger individuals more often receiving psychotherapy. Severity was weakly but significantly correlated with both age (r = 0.149, p < .01) and number of psychiatric diagnoses (r = 0.098, p < .05). Pornography addiction in India is shaped by age, relationship status, and cultural context. These findings underscore the need for age-targeted, culturally informed interventions. Future research should examine longitudinal trends and psychiatric comorbidities to guide comprehensive treatment planning.

ABSTRACT Aim This study aimed to investigate the effects of post-isometric relaxation (PIR) technique and Pelvic floor relaxation exercises (PFRE) on disease symptoms and compare the methods. Methods 42 females with DD were assigned to the PIR (n = 21) or the PFRE group (n = 21), each receiving 8 sessions treatment. Constipation severity (Constipation Severity Instrument-CSI), pain intensity during and after defecation (Visual Analog Scale-VAS), defecation duration, quality of life (Constipation Quality of Life Questionnaire-PAC-QOL), pelvic floor muscle function (Electromyography-EMG), sexual function (Female Sexual Function Index-FSFI) and the impact of DD on pelvic floor functions (Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire-short form-PFIQ-7) were assessed at baseline, and at the end of weeks 2 and 4. Results Defecation duration, pain intensity during and after defecation, CSI and PAC-QOL scores and pelvic floor relaxation activity (p < 0.001) decreased in both groups, with decrease greater in the PIR group (p < 0.001). Pelvic floor muscle contraction activity increased in the PFRE group (p = 0.011), but no difference was found in the second and fourth weeks between the groups (p > 0.005). No significant change was found in the satisfaction score in the PIR group and in sexual desire, sexual arousal, lubrication and satisfaction scores in the PFRE group (p > 0.005). FSFI total (p = 0.001), sexual desire (p = 0.005), sexual arousal (p = 0.004), lubrication (p = 0.012), orgasm (p = 0.020), satisfaction (p = 0.042), and pain (p = 0.001) scores increased more in the PIR group than the PFRE group. PFIQ-7 summary (p < 0.001), Colorectal-Anal Impact Questionnaire (p < 0.001) and Pelvic Organ Prolapse Impact Questionnaire (p = 0.002) scores decreased more in the PIR group. Conclusion PIR and PFRE may be effective in managing symptoms and improving quality of life in women with DD, with PIR showing potentially greater benefits.

PurposeThis study aimed to evaluate the changes in sexual function among women before and after cataract surgery, focusing on improvements in specific domains of sexual well-being.MethodsThis study was conducted as a prospective observational study between August 1, 2024, and November 1, 2024, at the Samsun Training and Research Hospital. A total of 66 female participants aged 18 years or older, married, and actively engaging in sexual activities were included. Patients with pre-existing psychiatric or neurological disorders, previous diagnoses of sexual dysfunction, or those who refused to provide consent were excluded. The primary assessment tool was the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), which measures domains such as sexual desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain. FSFI scores were collected both preoperatively and one month postoperatively. Other clinical parameters included age, BMI, educational level, and comorbidities such as hypertension and diabetes.ResultsThe mean age of the participants was 49.5 ± 4.4 years, and the average BMI was 24.0 ± 5.6 kg/m². Significant improvements were observed in all FSFI domains. Sexual desire increased from 2.3 ± 0.7 to 2.7 ± 0.8 (p < 0.001), and arousal improved from 1.9 ± 1.0 to 2.7 ± 1.3 (p < 0.001). Lubrication scores increased from 2.8 ± 1.2 to 3.2 ± 1.1 (p < 0.001), while orgasm scores improved from 1.7 ± 1.4 to 2.3 ± 1.4 (p < 0.001). Satisfaction scores rose from 2.5 ± 1.1 to 3.0 ± 1.1 (p < 0.001), and pain-discomfort scores improved from 1.9 ± 1.5 to 3.3 ± 1.6 (p < 0.001). The total FSFI score significantly increased from 13.0 ± 5.3 to 17.2 ± 5.1 (p < 0.001).ConclusionsCataract surgery not only restores visual function but is also associated with improvements in female sexual function and well-being. Improvements in sexual desire, arousal, lubrication, and satisfaction highlight the broader benefits of improved visual health. These findings suggest that addressing visual impairments may contribute to improved sexual function and quality of life.

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) can affect body image, quality of life, and sexual health. This study examined sexual challenges and dysfunctions among Danish individuals with and without IBD. In this population-based cross-sectional study, 62 675 participants from the Project SEXUS cohort were linked to the Danish National Patient Register, identifying 655 individuals diagnosed with IBD between 1996 and 2017 (437 with ulcerative colitis [UC] and 218 with Crohn's disease [CD]). In addition to study-specific measures, the 5-item International Index of Erectile Function and the 6-item Female Sexual Function Index were utilized to assess sexual dysfunctions. Logistic regression was used to compare individuals with UC or CD to those without IBD. Results were reported as adjusted odds ratios (aORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Compared with those without IBD, individuals with IBD reported similar overall sex life satisfaction and relationship quality. However, individuals with UC more often reported hypoactive sexual desire disorder (men: aOR, 2.18; 95% CI, 1.13-4.19; women: aOR, 1.66; 95% CI, 1.04-2.66), and women with UC more often reported genital pain dysfunction (aOR, 2.30; 95% CI, 1.26-4.19). Subgroup analyses revealed that patients with active disease, stoma, or perianal involvement had particularly elevated odds of sexual dysfunctions compared with non-IBD control subjects. Although the 5-item International Index of Erectile Function and 6-item Female Sexual Function Index scores did not indicate an excess of sexual dysfunction in the overall UC and CD populations, individuals with UC as well as patients with IBD experiencing active disease, stoma, or perianal involvement faced more sexual challenges than those without IBD. This highlights the need for gastroenterologists to proactively address sexual health and provide tailored support for patients with IBD.

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) has been demonstrated to be highly effective for improving sexual desire and reducing sex-related distress among women with sexual interest/arousal disorder (SIAD). The extent to which MBCT efficacy is impacted by relationship factors has not been studied to date and has implications for recommending MBCT to individual treatment seekers based upon their particular relationship characteristics. The goal of this study was to examine relationship status, relationship duration, self-reported relationship closeness, and relationship satisfaction as moderators of MBCT outcomes on sexual desire and sexual distress in 70 women with SIAD (Mean age 39.3years). Multilevel modeling examined the effects of these four moderators on outcomes at immediate posttreatment, and 6- and 12-month follow-up. Women who were single, those who self-reported not being emotionally close in their relationship, and those who had lower relationship satisfaction scores had significantly greater improvements in sexual desire after MBCT (d ranging from 0.49 to 0.99), and there was no effect of these relationship variables on sex-related distress. Years in relationship did not moderate either outcome. These preliminary findings suggest that single and relationally dissatisfied partnered women may benefit more from MBCT in terms of improvements to sexual desire compared to partnered and relationally satisfied women with SIAD.

Abstract Disclosure: B. Grant: None. J. Kean: None. N. Lakshitha de Silva: None. M. Gumssani: None. O. Quinton: None. W.S. Dhillo: None. A. Lingford-Hughes: None. C.N. Jayasena: None. Context: Thirty percent of men have androgen abuse dependency. Men ceasing androgen abuse commonly report reduced sexual dysfunction, low mood, low quality of life (QoL), anxiety and fatigue. Some androgen withdrawal symptoms may be hypogonadism-driven, but other symptoms may be psychologically driven. Factors associated with symptoms within the first year of androgen-withdrawal have not been investigated previously. Methods: A cross-sectional, observational study of 286 men: non-users (n=50); current-users (n=125); past-users 1 year (n=111). All participants completed questionnaires on androgen use, sexual function (International Index Erectile Function-15; IIEF-15), depression (Beck Depression Inventory-II; BDI-II), anxiety (Generalised Anxiety Disorder-7; GAD-7), quality of life (Short-Form-36; SF-36) and underwent fasted, morning blood testing with urine toxicology. Results: Psychiatric comorbidities were higher in current-users compared with non-users (5/50, 10%, non-users; 36/125, 28.8%, current-users; p=0.01). Illicit non-androgenic drug use was also higher in current-users and past-users compared with non-users (11/50, 22%, non-use; 61/125, 48.8%; p=0.001; 51/111, 45.9%, past use; p=0.0049). Serum total testosterone (TT) levels mildly and positively correlated with improved sexual function: (1) IIEF-15 total: r=0.19 [95% CI 0.07, 0.31], p=0.03; (2) erectile function: r=0.19 [95% CI 0.07, 0.31], p=0.03; (3) sexual desire: r=0.21 [95% CI 0.09, 0.33], p=0.01; (4) overall satisfaction: r=0.22 [95% CI 0.1, 0.34], p=0.01. In past-users, sexual dysfunction (IIEF-15 &amp;lt;62) moderately predicted hypogonadism (PPV for TT&amp;lt;8nmol/l=75%), but moderate-severe depression (BDI score 20) poorly predicted hypogonadism (PPV for TT&amp;lt;8nmol/l=16.6%). Multivariable analysis in past-users suggested that psychiatric comorbidity was associated with either sexual function (coefficient -13 [95% CI -23, -2.6], p=0.01) or depressive symptoms (coefficient 12.6 [95% CI 7.3, 17.8], p&amp;lt;0.0001. TT was not independently associated with symptoms in past-users. Discussion: This is the first comprehensive study of acute androgen withdrawal. Our data suggest a strong influence of psychiatric comorbidity on interpretation of androgen withdrawal symptoms, even in the presence of hypogonadism among affected men. Presentation: Saturday, July 12, 2025

Abstract Feminist scholars have long emphasized the power of language in shaping women's feelings and behaviors towards their bodies, yet this proposition remains underexplored with regard to women’s genitals. This study examined the terms women use to name their genitals and their associations with genital attitudes, sexual pleasure, and genital health behaviors across both non-sexual and sexual contexts. A total of 475 women from the United States, representing diverse age groups, reported their most commonly used genital terms. We identified nine categories of genital naming: anatomical, vulgar, playful/childish, euphemisms, gender identity, clitoris, edible, nature, and receptacle. The results revealed that in non-sexual contexts 75% of participants used at least one anatomical term; however, euphemisms (14%) and playful/childish terms (15%) remained prevalent. Playful/childish terms were associated with a negative genital self-image, aspects of sexual pleasure, and genital health behaviors in non-sexual contexts, but had no such effect when used in sexual contexts. Vulgar terms such as "pussy" were linked to increased sexual pleasure, higher orgasm rates, and a higher desire for oral sex when used in sexual contexts. These findings provide preliminary evidence that the language women use to describe their genitals is significantly associated with various aspects of their health and well-being.